---
title: "Migrate from QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online"
description: "Learn how to migrate from QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online. Step-by-step guide, benefits, data transfer details, and FAQs."
tags: QuickBooks, QuickBooks Online, Desktop Pro Plus, Migration, Accounting
---

# Migrate from QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online

With increasing demand for remote access, automation, and real-time financial visibility, many businesses are choosing to **migrate from QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online**. While Desktop Pro Plus offers annual upgrades and support, it still relies on local installations and manual file access.

QuickBooks Online (QBO) provides cloud-based accounting with automatic updates, enhanced security, and seamless collaboration. This guide explains **how to migrate QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online**, what data transfers, common challenges, and best practices for a smooth transition.

## Why Migrate from QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online?

Migrating to QuickBooks Online helps modernize your accounting workflow.

### Key Benefits of QuickBooks Online

- **Anywhere Access:** Work from any device with internet access
- **Automatic Updates:** No annual upgrades or installations
- **Cloud Security:** Encrypted data with automatic backups
- **Multi-User Collaboration:** No hosting or VPN required
- **App Integrations:** Payroll, CRM, inventory, and eCommerce apps

> **Expert Insight:**
> Businesses moving from Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online often reduce IT overhead and gain faster access to real-time financial reports.

## Which QuickBooks Online Version Should You Choose?

After migration, most businesses choose:

- **Simple Start** – Freelancers and solo users
- **Essentials** – Service-based businesses
- **Plus** – Inventory tracking and project costing

**Tip:** If you currently use inventory in Desktop Pro Plus, choose **QuickBooks Online Plus**.

## Before You Migrate: Preparation Checklist

Preparation ensures accurate data transfer.

### Pre-Migration Checklist

- ✔ Update QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to the latest release
- ✔ Log in as **Admin**
- ✔ Switch to **Single-User Mode**
- ✔ Create a full company file backup
- ✔ Reconcile all bank and credit card accounts
- ✔ Clean up inactive customers, vendors, and items

**Best Practice:** A clean company file migrates faster and with fewer errors.

## How to Migrate from QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online

### Step 1: Open QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus
Sign in as admin and open your company file.

### Step 2: Start the Export Tool
Navigate to:
`Company > Export Company File > To QuickBooks Online`

### Step 3: Sign In to QuickBooks Online
Log in with your existing QBO account or create a new one.

### Step 4: Select Data to Migrate
Choose to migrate:
- All historical data, or
- Lists and balances only

### Step 5: Complete the Migration
Your data uploads securely to QuickBooks Online.
⏳ Migration time depends on file size and internet speed.

## What Data Transfers to QuickBooks Online?

### Data That Migrates

- Chart of accounts
- Customers and vendors
- Products and services
- Invoices, estimates, and bills
- Payments and deposits
- Bank transactions

### Data That Does Not Migrate

- Payroll history details
- Audit trail
- Sales tax payment history
- Custom reports and templates

**Recommendation:** Export non-migrating data for compliance and records.

## Common Migration Issues and Solutions

### File Size Too Large
➡ Remove inactive lists or condense historical data

### Inventory Quantity Differences
➡ Adjust inventory after migration

### Payroll Configuration Issues
➡ Reconfigure payroll settings in QuickBooks Online

## Real-World Example

**Scenario:**
A retail business using QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus needed remote access for multiple users.

**Solution:**
They chose to **migrate from QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online Plus**.

**Results:**
- Real-time inventory tracking
- Improved team collaboration
- Reduced IT and maintenance costs

## Post-Migration Best Practices

- Reconnect bank and credit card feeds
- Set user roles and permissions
- Review opening balances
- Customize reports and dashboards
- Integrate apps like PayPal, Stripe, or Shopify

## 🚀 Need Help Migrating?

**Speak with a QuickBooks Migration Expert**
📞 **Call: 866-593-4750**
Avoid errors, downtime, and data loss with expert assistance.

## FAQs: QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to Online Migration

**Q1. Can I migrate QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online myself?**
Yes, many small businesses can migrate using the built-in export tool.

**Q2. Will I lose data during migration?**
Most accounting data migrates, but payroll history and audit trails do not.

**Q3. How long does migration take?**
Typically 30 minutes to several hours, depending on file size.

**Q4. Is QuickBooks Online better than Pro Plus?**
For businesses needing cloud access, automation, and scalability—yes.

**Q5. What if something goes wrong during migration?**
Issues can usually be fixed with troubleshooting or professional support.

## Conclusion

If you want secure cloud access, automatic updates, and modern accounting tools, it’s time to **migrate from QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus to QuickBooks Online**. With proper preparation and expert guidance, the transition can be smooth and highly beneficial.

📞 **Call 866-593-4750** today to get expert help with your QuickBooks migration.